Personal electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner

ABSTRACT

A personal electro-kinetic electro-static air conditioner includes a self-contained ion generator that provides electro-kinetically moved air with ions and safe amounts of ozone, and includes a water retaining element to increase humidity of the output air flow. The ion generator includes a high voltage pulse generator whose output pulses are coupled between first and second electrode arrays. Preferably the first electrode array includes first and second pointed electrodes, and the second electrode array includes annular-like electrodes having a central opening coaxial with the associated pointed electrode. The surface of the annular-like electrodes is smooth and continuous through the opening and into a collar region through which the air flows. A water retaining member is disposed surrounding the output airflow to increase humidity of the output air, which is substantially cleansed of particulate matter, and contains safe amounts of ozone.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/658,721, filed Sep. 9, 2003 entitled PERSONAL ELECTRO-KINETIC AIRTRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,896,853, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/669,253, filed Sep.25, 2000 entitled PERSONAL ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,632,407, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/186,471, filed Nov. 5, 1998 entitledELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER, now U.S. Pat. No.6,176,977, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to electro-kinetic conversion of electricalenergy into fluid flow of an ionizable dielectric medium in which anelectro-kinetically produced flow of air is created, the air containingsafe amounts of ozone and from which air particulate matter has beensubstantially removed, and more particularly to portable such unitsadapted for use in a confined area in which some degree of humiditycontrol is desired.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of an electric motor to rotate a fan blade to create an air flowhas long been known in the art. Unfortunately, such fans producesubstantial noise, and can present a hazard to children who may betempted to poke a finger or a pencil into the moving fan blade. Althoughsuch fans can produce substantial air flow, e.g., 1,000 ft³/minute ormore, substantial electrical power is required to operate the motor, andessentially no conditioning of the flowing air occurs.

It is known to provide such fans with a HEPA-compliant filter element toremove particulate matter larger than perhaps 0.3 μm. Unfortunately, theresistance to air flow presented by the filter element may requiredoubling the electric motor size to maintain a desired level of airflow.Further, HEPA-compliant filter elements are expensive, and can representa substantial portion of the sale price of a HEPA-compliant filter-fanunit. While such filter-fan units can condition the air by removinglarge particles, particulate matter small enough to pass through thefilter element is not removed, including bacteria, for example.

It is also known in the art to produce an air flow using electro-kinetictechniques, by which electrical power is directly converted into a flowof air without mechanically moving components. One such system isdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,789,801 to Lee (1988), depicted herein insimplified form as FIGS. 1A and 1B. Lee's system 10 includes an array ofsmall area (“minisectional”) electrodes 20 that is spaced-apartsymmetrically from an array of larger area (“maxisectional”) electrodes30. The positive terminal of a pulse generator 40 that outputs a trainof high voltage pulses (e.g., 0 to perhaps +5 KV) is coupled to theminisectional array, and the negative pulse generator terminal iscoupled to the maxisectional array.

The high voltage pulses ionize the air between the arrays, and an airflow 50 from the minisectional array toward the maxisectional arrayresults, without requiring any moving parts. Particulate matter 60 inthe air is entrained within the airflow 50 and also moves towards themaxisectional electrodes 30. Much of the particulate matter iselectrostatically attracted to the surface of the maxisectionalelectrode array, where it remains, thus conditioning the flow of airexiting system 10. Further, the high voltage field present between theelectrode arrays can release ozone into the ambient environment, whichappears to destroy or at least alter whatever is entrained in theairflow, including for example, bacteria.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1A, minisectional electrodes 20 are circularin cross-section, having a diameter of about 0.003″ (0.08 mm), whereasthe maxisectional electrodes 30 are substantially larger in area anddefine a “teardrop” shape in cross-section. The ratio of cross-sectionalareas between the maxisectional and minisectional electrodes is notexplicitly stated, but from Lee's figures appears to exceed 10:1. Asshown in FIG. 1A herein, the bulbous front surfaces of the maxisectionalelectrodes face the minisectional electrodes, and the somewhat sharptrailing edges face the exit direction of the air flow. The “sharpened”trailing edges on the maxisectional electrodes apparently promote goodelectrostatic attachment of particular matter entrained in the airflowand help airflow. Lee does not disclose how the teardrop shapedmaxisectional electrodes are fabricated, but presumably they areproduced using a relatively expensive mold-casting or an extrusionprocess.

In another embodiment shown herein as FIG. 1B, Lee's maxisectionalsectional electrodes 30 are symmetrical and elongated in cross-section.The elongated trailing edges on the maxisectional electrodes provideincreased area upon which particulate matter entrained in the airflowcan attach. Lee states that precipitation efficiency and desiredreduction of anion release into the environment can result fromincluding a passive third array of electrodes 70. Understandably,increasing efficiency by adding a third array of electrodes willcontribute to the cost of manufacturing and maintaining the resultantsystem.

While the electrostatic techniques disclosed by Lee are advantageous toconventional electric fan-filter units, Lee's maxisectional electrodesare relatively expensive to fabricate. Increased filter efficiencybeyond what Lee's embodiments can produce would be advantageous,especially without including a third array of electrodes. Further, Lee'ssystem does not provide for changing the moisture content of the outputflow of air, and does not lend itself to being fabricated in a smallform factor, for example hand holdable.

While a Lee-type system may be useful in a room, it does not lend itselfto portability, for example for use in a confined relatively small areasuch as the seating compartment of a motor vehicle or an airplane.

Thus, there is a need for a portable electro-kinetic airtransporter-conditioner that provides improved efficiency over Lee-typesystems, without requiring expensive production techniques to fabricatethe electrodes. Preferably such a conditioner should functionefficiently without requiring a third array of electrodes. Such aconditioner should permit user-selection of safe amounts of ozone to begenerated, for example to remove odor from the ambient environment, andshould be implementable in a hand held form factor so as to be portable.Further, such a conditioner should permit increasing the moisturecontent of the output airflow.

The present invention provides a method and portable apparatus forelectro-kinetically transporting and conditioning air.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention provides a preferably portable electro-kineticsystem for transporting and conditioning air without moving parts. Theair is conditioned in the sense that it is ionized and contains safeamounts of ozone, and, optionally, can benefit from augmented moisturecontent or aromatic content. Indeed users who are asthmatics may wish toprovide the invention with an asthma inhalant that is added to theoutflow of clean air, for their personal benefit.

Applicants' electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner includes ahousing with at least one vent through which ambient air may enter, andan ionizer unit disposed within the housing. The ionizer unit includes ahigh voltage DC inverter that boosts low voltage (e.g., perhaps 6 VDC toabout 12 VDC) to high voltage DC, and a generator that receives the highvoltage DC and outputs high voltage pulses. The high voltage pulses areperhaps 10 KV peak-to-peak, although an essentially 100% duty cycle(e.g., high voltage DC) output could be used instead of pulses. The unitalso includes at least one and preferably two electrode assembly units,each unit comprising spaced-apart first and second arrays of conductingelectrodes coupled between the positive and negative output ports of thehigh voltage generator. Preferably at least one moisture-containingmember is disposed adjacent a downstream region of each second-arrayelectrodes so as to increase humidity of the output airstream.

Preferably two electrode assemblies are used, in which each assembly isformed using first and second arrays of readily manufacturable electrodetypes. In one embodiment, the first array comprises wire-like electrodesand the second array comprises “U”-shaped electrodes having one or twotrailing surfaces. In a preferred, even more efficient embodiment, eachfirst array includes at least one pin or cone-like electrode and thesecond array is an annular washer-like electrode. The electrodeassemblies may comprise various combinations of the described first andsecond array electrodes. In the various embodiments, the ratio betweeneffective radius of the second array electrodes to the first arrayelectrodes is at least about 20:1.

The high voltage pulses create an electric field between the first andsecond electrode arrays in each electrode assembly. This field producesan electro-kinetic airflow going from the first array toward the secondarray, the airflow being rich in preferably a net surplus of negativeions and in ozone. Ambient air including dust particles and otherundesired components (germs, perhaps) enter the housing through theinput vent, and ionized clean air (with ozone) exits through openings onthe downstream side of the housing. When the moisture-containing memberis wet, the exiting air flow can have increased humidity.

The dust and other particulate matter attaches electrostatically to thesecond array (or collector) electrodes, and the output air issubstantially clean of such particulate matter. Further, ozone generatedby the present invention can kill certain types of germs and the like,and also eliminates odors in the output air. Preferably the transporteroperates in periodic bursts, and a control permits the user totemporarily increase the high voltage pulse generator output, e.g., tomore rapidly eliminate odors in the environment.

In one embodiment, the system includes an internal battery power supplyand can be suspended by a cord from a user's neck, with the outflowairstream directly generally upward toward the user. This embodiment isespecially useful in a confined area where the air might be stale orgerm-laden, for example the seating compartment of an airline, or a bus.A similar embodiment can be used within and powered from the powersupply of a motor vehicle, for example, from the cigarette lighteraccessory plug of an automobile or truck. This embodiment includes anelectronic timer that causes the system to operate for a predeterminedtime (perhaps half an hour) each time the power supply is turned-on,with an option for the user to cause the system to operate more thanonce per system turn-on. Alternatively a motion sensor switch comprisinga sound or force detecting transducer and movable objects can turn-onthe system whenever the vehicle in moving sufficiently to agitate themovable objects such that their vibration-motion is transducer detected.

Other features and advantages of the invention will appear from thefollowing description in which the preferred embodiments have been setforth in detail, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a plan, cross-sectional view, of a first embodiment of aprior art electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner system, accordingto the prior art;

FIG. 1B is a plan, cross-sectional view, of a second embodiment of aprior art electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner system, accordingto the prior art;

FIG. 2A depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention worn onthe person of a user;

FIG. 2B depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention used ina motor vehicle;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the present invention;

FIG. 2D is a breakaway perspective view of the present invention;

FIG. 3A is an electrical block diagram of the present invention;

FIG. 3B is a vibration-sensing module to activate the system of FIG. 3A,according to the present invention;

FIG. 4A is a perspective block diagram showing a first embodiment for anelectrode assembly, according to the present invention;

FIG. 4B is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a perspective block diagram showing a second embodiment foran electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

FIG. 4D is a plan block diagram of a modified version of the embodimentof FIG. 4C;

FIG. 4E is a perspective block diagram showing a third embodiment for anelectrode assembly, according to the present invention;

FIG. 4F is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4E;

FIG. 4G is a perspective block diagram showing a fourth embodiment foran electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

FIG. 4H is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4G;

FIG. 4I is a perspective block diagram showing an especially preferredembodiment for an electrode assembly, according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 4J is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the electrodeassembly embodiment of FIG. 4I;

FIG. 4K is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of analternative electrode assembly to the embodiment of FIG. 4I;

FIG. 4L is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of a furtheralternative electrode assembly to the embodiment of FIG. 4I;

FIG. 4M is a cross-section of a portion of the second array electrodeshown in the embodiment of FIG. 2D; and

FIG. 4N is a detailed cross-sectional view showing a further alternativeelectrode assembly to the embodiment of FIG. 4I.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 2A depicts a preferred embodiment of an electro-kinetic airtransporter-conditioner system 100 suspended by a flexible cord 101 fromthe neck of a user. System 100 is formed within a housing 102 thatpreferably is a lightweight easily formed material, ABS plastic forexample. Housing 102 includes ambient air intake vents 104 and at leastone and preferably two output or exhaust vents 106. Ambient air entersvents 104 and exits vents 106, preferably with a higher moisturecontent, with at least some particulate matter in the ambient airremoved (e.g., dust), and with safe amounts of ozone (O₃). Housing 102contains an ion generating unit 160, powered from a battery source B1,also disposed within the housing. Ion generating unit 160 isself-contained in that other than ambient air, nothing is required frombeyond the transporter housing for operation of the present invention.

FIG. 2B depicts system 100 mounted on or to the interior of a motorvehicle, for example, mounted with Velcro™ material (a closure includinga piece of fabric of small hooks that sticks to a corresponding fabricof small loops) to the dashboard 109 of an automobile. In thisembodiment, since the vehicle power supply is available, operating powerto ion generating unit 160 preferably is obtained via an electricalcable 111 connected between a power inlet jack J1 on housing 102 and themotor vehicle cigarette light auxiliary power source 113. System 100 inFIG. 2B may otherwise be identical to system 100 in FIG. 2A except thatan optional mechanical motion detector 211 is included. Motion detector211 is shown in detail in FIG. 3B and advantageously can be used topower-on system 100 whenever the vehicle containing dashboard 109 ismoving.

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of system 100 and housing 102. Internal tohousing 100, ion generating unit 160 includes a first array 230 of atleast one electrode 232 and a second array 240 of at least one electrode242. The second array electrodes are disposed closer to outlet port 106in the downstream direction from the first array electrodes, e.g., theair stream created by the present invention will flow generally from thefirst array electrodes toward the second array electrodes and then outof housing 100 via ports 106. The first and second arrays of electrodesare coupled in series between the output terminals of ion generatingunit 160, shown and described with respect to FIG. 3A. In the embodimentof FIGS. 2C and 2D, the first array electrodes 232 are pointed elements,whereas the second array electrodes 242 are somewhat disk-like annularelements with a central opening, in which the first array electrodefacing surface of the disk transitions smoothly and continuously into acollar that helps define the through opening in the disk. As will bedescribed later herein with respect to FIGS. 4K and 4L, the profile ofthe collar may be parallel or somewhat cone-shaped, e.g., tending toconverge toward the outlet opening.

Optionally, the present invention advantageously can augment moisturecontent in the output air flow and includes a moisture-retaining member112 adjacent at least one outlet port 106, preferably disposed as topresent the least resistance to the outflow of air. In the preferredembodiment, moisture-retaining member 112 is a hollow collar-likecylinder, perhaps 0.125″ thick of ultra-high molecular weightpolyethelene (UHMW) material, marketed under the trademark Porex™ (e.g.,Porex™ UHMW X-4901), that the user will moisten with water. Suchmaterial has a polyethylene base and exhibits a wicking action, and canabsorb and retain substantial amounts of moisture such as water. Anasthmatic user may wish to moisten member 112 with an asthma medicationsuch that the output flow of air is clean, contains beneficial amountsof ozone, has increased humidity and may also provide asthma relief byvirtue of the medication also present in the output air.

In the embodiment of FIG. 2B, it may be desired to replace themoisture-retaining material with a scent-imparting material, that canfreshen the air within the motor vehicle. If desired, an air humidifyingand air scenting function can be employed by combining the Porex™ typematerial with a scene-imparting material.

FIG. 2D is a breakaway view of the present invention. Housing 102 may(but need not be) formed with an upper member 119 that includes theintake vents 104, a bottom member 121 that includes a battery hatch 123,and a detachable front member 125 that includes output ports 106 andmoisture-retaining and/or scent-imparting material 112. The overalldimensions of housing 102 are not critical. In the preferred example,the overall thickness, top to bottom is perhaps 1″ (2.5 cm), the widthis about 3.5″ (8.8 cm) and the length is perhaps 5″ (12 cm).

As will be described, when unit 100 is energized, e.g., by closingswitch S1 (or the equivalent, e.g., module 211), high voltage output byion generator 160 produces ions at the first electrode array, which ionsare attracted to the second electrode array. The movement of the ions inan “IN” to “OUT” direction carries with them air molecules, thuselectro-kinetically producing an outflow of ionized air. The “IN” notionin FIG. 2A denotes the intake of ambient air with particulate matter 60.The “OUT” notation in the figures denotes the outflow of cleaned airsubstantially devoid of the particulate matter, which adhereselectrostatically to the surface of the second array electrodes. In theprocess of generating the ionized air flow, safe amounts of ozone (O₃)are beneficially produced. It may be desired to provide the innersurface of housing 102 with an electrostatic shield to reducesdetectable electromagnetic radiation. For example, a metal shield couldbe disposed within the housing, or portions of the interior of thehousing could be coated with a metallic paint to reduce such radiation.

As best seen in FIG. 3A, ion generating unit 160 includes a high voltagegenerator unit 170 for converting low input voltage, e.g., perhaps 6 VDCfrom a battery supply B1 or perhaps 12 VDC from a vehicle battery intokilovolt level pulses. High voltage generator unit 170 preferablycomprises a low voltage oscillator circuit 190 of perhaps 20 KHzfrequency, that outputs low voltage pulses to an electronic switch 200,e.g., a thyristor or the like. Switch 200 switchably couples the lowvoltage pulses to the input winding of a step-up transformer T1. Thesecondary winding of T1 is coupled to a high voltage multiplier circuit210 that outputs high voltage pulses. Preferably the circuitry andcomponents comprising high voltage pulse generator 170 and circuit 180are fabricated on a printed circuit board that is mounted within housing102.

Output pulses from high voltage generator 170 preferably are at least 10KV peak-to-peak with an effective DC offset of perhaps half thepeak-to-peak voltage, and have a frequency of perhaps 20 KHz. The pulsetrain output preferably has a duty cycle of perhaps 10%, which willpromote battery lifetime for the embodiment of FIG. 2A. Of course,different peak-peak amplitudes, DC offsets, pulse train waveshapes, dutycycle, and/or repetition frequencies may instead be used. Indeed, a 100%pulse train (e.g., an essentially DC high voltage) may be used, albeitwith shorter battery lifetime. Thus, generator unit 170 may (but neednot) be referred to as a DC:DC high voltage pulse generator. Frequencyof oscillation is not especially critical but frequency of at leastabout 20 KHz is preferred as being inaudible to humans.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the output from high voltage pulse generator unit170 is coupled to an electrode assembly 220 that comprises a firstelectrode array 230 (that includes at least one first electrode 232) anda second electrode array 240 (that includes at least one secondelectrode 242). As further shown by FIG. 3A, ion generating unit 160also includes circuitry 180 that can also include a timer circuit and avisual indicator such as a light emitting diode (LED) that can advise auser when ion generation is occurring. (Of course an audible signalcould also or instead be used.) The timer can be set to function for apredetermined time when power is first applied (e.g., with switch S1),for example 30 minutes, and then turn-off system 100. The user could ofcourse again press S1 to obtain another 30 minute outflow of ionized,cleaned air with increased humidity and/or scent. If desired, circuitry190 and/or 200 could be caused to output a temporary burst of increasedionized air in response to user pressing of a control on housing 102.

For the vehicle embodiment of FIG. 2B, a vibration sensor 211 as shownin FIG. 3B may be attached within housing 102 to turn-on system 100whenever the vehicle in which system 100 is used is moving. Vibrationsensor 211 comprises a sound or force detecting transducer 213 mountedto a small container 215 within which are metal BB's 217 or the like.Sensor 213 may be a Keyocera transducer having perhaps 20 mm diameter,and housing 215 may have a top-to-bottom depth of perhaps 10 mm. Ashousing 102 is vibrated by the moving vehicle, BB's 217 rattle aroundwithin container 215 and the resultant noise or physical impact with thetransducer is detected by transducer 217. Wires 219 couple thetransducer output to the circuitry shown in FIG. 3A. The result is thatwhen system 100 is plugged into the vehicle cigarette lighter, even ifswitch S1 is open, when the vehicle moves with sufficient vibration, therattling BB noise causes transducer 213 to turn-on the electronics shownin FIG. 3A. Preferably the electronics are thus turned-on for apredetermined time, e.g., 30 minutes. After 30 minutes the electronicscan turn-off but when the vehicle against produces a sufficiently largevibration, system 100 will be turned-on for an additional 30 minutes.

In some modern vehicles, mechanical vibration is so small that it isdesired to have system 100 activated automatically whenever ignitionswitch is turned-on. Thus, whenever the vehicle is started, system 100will operate for a pre-determined time (e.g., perhaps 30 minutes or so,determined by circuit 180) and then turn-off. The user can press S1 (oran equivalent switch) to recycle system 100 to function for anadditional 30 minutes, etc.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the positive output terminal of unit 170is coupled to first electrode array 230, and the negative outputterminal is coupled to second electrode array 240. This couplingpolarity has been found to work well, including minimizing unwantedaudible electrode vibration or hum. An electrostatic flow of air iscreated, going from the first electrode array towards the secondelectrode array. (This flow is denoted “OUT” in the figures.)Accordingly electrode assembly 220 is mounted within transporter system100 such that second electrode array 240 is closer to the OUT vents andfirst electrode array 230 is closer to the IN vents.

When voltage or pulses from high voltage pulse generator 170 are coupledacross first and second electrode arrays 230 and 240, it is believedthat a plasma-like field is created surrounding electrodes 232 in firstarray 230. This electric field ionizes the ambient air between the firstand second electrode arrays and establishes an “OUT” airflow that movestowards the second array. It is understood that the IN flow enters viavent(s) 104, and that the OUT flow exits via vent(s) 106.

It is believed that ozone and ions are generated simultaneously by thefirst array electrode(s) 232, essentially as a function of the potentialfrom generator 170 coupled to the first array. Ozone generation may beincreased or decreased by increasing or decreasing the potential at thefirst array. Coupling an opposite polarity potential to the second arrayelectrode(s) 242 essentially accelerates the motion of ions generated atthe first array, producing the air flow denoted as “OUT” in the figures.As the ions move toward the second array, it is believed that they pushor move air molecules toward the second array. The relative velocity ofthis motion may be increased by decreasing the potential at the secondarray relative to the potential at the first array.

For example, if +10 KV were applied to the first array electrode(s), andno potential were applied to the second array electrode(s), a cloud ofions (whose net charge is positive) would form adjacent the firstelectrode array. Further, the relatively high 10 KV potential wouldgenerate substantial ozone. By coupling a relatively negative potentialto the second array electrode(s), the velocity of the air mass moved bythe net emitted ions increases, as momentum of the moving ions isconserved.

On the other hand, if it were desired to maintain the same effectiveoutflow (OUT) velocity but to generate less ozone, the exemplary 10 KVpotential could be divided between the electrode arrays. For example,generator 170 could provide +4 KV (or some other fraction) to the firstarray electrode(s) and −6 KV (or some other fraction) to the secondarray electrode(s). In this example, it is understood that the +4 KV andthe −6 KV are measured relative to ground. Understandably it is desiredthat the present invention operate to output safe amounts of ozone.Accordingly, the high voltage is preferably fractionalized with about +4KV applied to the first array electrode(s) and about −6 KV applied tothe second array electrodes.

As noted, outflow (OUT) preferably includes safe amounts of O₃ that candestroy or at least substantially alter bacteria, germs, and otherliving (or quasi-living) matter subjected to the outflow. Thus, whenswitch S1 is closed and B1 has sufficient operating potential, pulsesfrom high voltage pulse generator unit 170 create an outflow (OUT) ofionized air and O₃. When S1 is closed, LED will visually signal whenionization is occurring.

Preferably operating parameters of the present invention are set duringmanufacture and are not user-adjustable. For example, increasing thepeak-to-peak output voltage and/or duty cycle in the high voltage pulsesgenerated by unit 170 can increase air flowrate, ion content, and ozonecontent. In the preferred embodiment, output flowrate is about 200feet/minute, ion content is about 2,000,000/cc and ozone content isabout 40 ppb (over ambient) to perhaps 2,000 ppb (over ambient). Asdescribed herein, decreasing the second electrode/first electrode radiusof curvature R2/R1 ratio below about 20:1 will decrease flow rate, aswill decreasing the peak-to-peak voltage and/or duty cycle of the highvoltage pulses coupled between the first and second electrode arrays.

In practice, unit 100 is energized from B1 or a vehicle battery,whereupon an output flow of clean ionized air is emitted from vents 106.If member 112 is wet with water, the outflow of air will exhibitincreased humidity. If member 112 is instead (or in addition) a materialthat imparts a scent, e.g., perhaps pine or mint odor, the outflow airwill also smell fresh. The air flow, coupled with the ions and ozonefreshens the air that the user adjacent the unit will breathe, and canbe especially beneficial in a closed area such as an airline or motorvehicle passenger compartment. The ozone can beneficially destroy or atleast diminish the undesired effects of certain odors, bacteria, germs,and the like. Further, the air flow is indeed electro-kineticallyproduced, in that there are no intentionally moving parts within thepresent invention. (As noted, some mechanical vibration may occur withinsome electrode configurations.) Preferably the present invention is usedto output a net surplus of negative ions, as these ions are deemed morebeneficial to health than are positive ions.

Having described various aspects of the invention in general, variousembodiments of electrode assembly 220 will now be described. In thevarious embodiments, electrode assembly 220 will comprise a first array230 of at least one electrode 232, and will further comprise a secondarray 240 of preferably at least one electrode 242. Understandablymaterial(s) for electrodes 232 and 242 should conduct electricity, beresilient to corrosive effects from the application of high voltage, yetbe strong enough to be cleaned.

FIG. 4A depicts an electrode array 220 that is especially good forremoving particulate matter (shown as 60) from incoming ambient air inthat the downstream electrodes 242 in second array 240 have relativelylarge collection surfaces 244 whereon particulate matter 60 can beelectrostatically attracted and accumulated, until cleaned by the user.In this embodiment, electrode(s) 232 in the first electrode array 230are wire or wire-like and are preferably fabricated from tungsten.Tungsten is sufficiently robust to withstand occasional cleaning, has ahigh melting point to retard breakdown due to ionization, and has arough exterior surface that seems to promote efficient ionization. Onthe other hand, electrodes 242 preferably will have a highly polishedexterior surface to minimize unwanted point-to-point radiation. As such,electrodes 242 preferably are fabricated from stainless steel, brass,among other materials. The polished surface of electrodes 232 alsopromotes ease of electrode cleaning.

In contrast to the prior art electrodes disclosed by Lee, electrodes 232and 242 according to the present invention are light weight, easy tofabricate, and lend themselves to mass production. Further, electrodes232 and 242 described herein promote more efficient generation ofionized air, and production of safe amounts of ozone, O₃. Showngenerally in FIG. 4A is moisture and/or scene imparting member 112,disposed in the downstream region of the invention. If member 112 ismade wet with water, air passing by member 112 en route to outlet port106 will increase in humidity. By the same token, if member 112 containsa pleasant scent, air passing by en route to outlet port 106 will exitthe present invention with a more pleasant aroma.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, high voltage pulse generator 170 is coupledbetween the first electrode array 230 and the second electrode array240. As noted, high voltage pulses from generator 170 produce a flow ofionized air that travels in the direction from the first array towardsthe second array (indicated herein by hollow arrows denoted “OUT”). Assuch, electrode(s) 232 may be referred to as an emitting electrode, andelectrodes 242 may be referred to as collector electrodes or acceleratorelectrodes. This outflow advantageously contains safe amounts of O₃, andexits the present invention from vent(s) 106.

According to the present invention, it is preferred that the positiveoutput terminal or port of the high voltage pulse generator be coupledto electrodes 232, and that the negative output terminal or port becoupled to electrodes 242. It is believed that the net polarity of theemitted ions is positive, e.g., more positive ions than negative ionsare emitted. In any event, the preferred electrode assembly electricalcoupling minimizes audible hum from electrodes 232 contrasted withreverse polarity (e.g., interchanging the positive and negative outputport connections).

However, while generation of positive ions is conducive to a relativelysilent air flow, from a health standpoint, it is desired that the outputair flow be richer in negative ions, not positive ions. It is noted thatin some embodiments, however, one port (preferably the negative port) ofthe high voltage pulse generator may in fact be the ambient air. Thus,electrodes in the second array need not be connected to the high voltagepulse generator using wire. Nonetheless, there will be an “effectiveconnection” between the second array electrodes and one output port ofthe high voltage pulse generator, in this instance, via ambient air.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 4B, electrode assembly 220 comprisesa first array 230 of wire electrodes 232, whereas second array 240includes generally “U”-shaped preferably hollow electrodes 242. Inpreferred embodiments, the number N1 of electrodes comprising the firstarray will preferably differ by one relative to the number N2 ofelectrodes comprising the second array. In many of the embodimentsshown, N2>N1. However, if desired, in FIG. 4A, addition first electrodes232 could be added at the out ends of array 230 such that N1>N2, e.g.,five electrodes 232 compared to four electrodes 242.

Electrodes 242 are formed from sheet metal, preferably stainless steel,although brass or other sheet metal could be used. The sheet metal isreadily formed to define side regions 244 and bulbous nose region 246for hollow elongated “U” shaped electrodes 242. While FIG. 4A depictsfour electrodes 242 in second array 240 and three electrodes 232 infirst array 230, as noted, other numbers of electrodes in each arraycould be used, preferably retaining a symmetrically staggeredconfiguration as shown. It is seen in FIG. 4A that while particulatematter 60 is present in the incoming (IN) air, the outflow (OUT) air issubstantially devoid of particulate matter, which adheres to thepreferably large surface area provided by the second array electrodes(see FIG. 4B).

As best seen in FIG. 4B, the spaced-apart configuration between thearrays is staggered such that each first array electrode 232 issubstantially equidistant from two second array electrodes 242. Thissymmetrical staggering has been found to be an especially efficientelectrode placement. Preferably the staggering geometry is symmetricalin that adjacent electrodes 232 or adjacent electrodes 242 arespaced-apart a constant distance, Y1 and Y2 respectively. However, anon-symmetrical configuration could also be used, although ion emissionand air flow would likely be diminished. Also, it is understood that thenumber of electrodes 232 and 242 may differ from what is shown.

Assume that system 100 has overall dimensions of perhaps 6″ height (15cm), 4″ width (10 cm) and perhaps 1″ thickness (2.5 cm). In FIGS. 4A,typically dimensions would be as follows: diameter of electrodes 232 isabout 0.08 mm, distances Y1 and Y2 are each about 16 mm, distance X1 isabout 16 mm, distance L is about 10 mm, and electrode heights Z1 and Z2are each about 12 cm. The width W of electrodes 242 is preferably about4 mm, and the thickness of the material from which electrodes 242 areformed is about 0.5 mm. Of course other dimensions and shapes could beused. It is preferred that electrodes 232 be small in diameter to helpestablish a desired high voltage field. On the other hand, it is desiredthat electrodes 232 (as well as electrodes 242) be sufficiently robustto withstand occasional cleaning.

Electrodes 232 in first array 230 are coupled by a conductor 234 to afirst (preferably positive) output port of high voltage pulse generator170, and electrodes 242 in second array 240 are coupled by a conductor244 to a second (preferably negative) output port of generator 170. Itis relatively unimportant where on the various electrodes electricalconnection is made to conductors 234 or 244. Thus, by way of exampleFIG. 4B depicts conductor 244 making connection with some electrodes 242internal to bulbous end 246, while other electrodes 242 make electricalconnection to conductor 244 elsewhere on the electrode. Electricalconnection to the various electrodes 242 could also be made on theelectrode external surface providing no substantial impairment of theoutflow airstream results.

It is preferred that at least electrode assembly 240 is readilyremovable from housing 102 for cleaning, e.g., removing accumulatedparticulate matter 60 from the electrode surfaces. Thus, housing 102 maybe provided with a user-removable second array 240, or the housing mayinclude a break-away feature providing the user with access to thesecond array for such periodic cleaning as may be required.

Referring to the geometry of the electrodes shown in FIG. 4A and 4B, andindeed in other configurations shown herein, the ratio of the effectiveelectric field emanating radius of electrode 232 to the nearesteffective radius of electrodes 242 is at least about 15:1, andpreferably is at least 20:1. Thus, in the embodiment of FIG. 4A and FIG.4B, the ratio R2/R1 ^(˜) 2 mm/0.04 mm^(˜) 50:1. Other dimensions may beused in other configurations, but preferably a minimum R2/R1 ratio ismaintain that is at least about 15:1.

In this and the other embodiments to be described herein, ionizationappears to occur at the smaller electrode(s) 232 in the first electrodearray 230, with ozone production occurring as a function of high voltagearcing. For example, increasing the peak-to-peak voltage amplitudeand/or duty cycle of the pulses from the high voltage pulse generator170 can increase ozone content in the output flow of ionized air. Ifdesired, user-control S2 can be used to somewhat vary ozone content byvarying (in a safe manner) amplitude and/or duty cycle. Specificcircuitry for achieving such control is known in the art and need not bedescribed in detail herein.

Note the inclusion in FIGS. 4A and 4B of at least one output controllingelectrode 243, preferably electrically coupled to the same potential asthe second array electrodes. Electrode 243 preferably defines a pointedshape in side profile, e.g., a triangle. The sharp point on electrode(s)243 causes generation of substantial negative ions (since the electrodeis coupled to relatively negative high potential). These negative ionsneutralize excess positive ions otherwise present in the output airflow, such that the OUT flow has a net negative charge. Electrode(s) 243preferably are stainless steel, copper, or other conductor, and areperhaps 20 mm high and about 12 mm wide at the base although othershapes and/or dimensions could be used.

Another advantage of including pointed electrodes 243 is that they maybe stationarily mounted within the housing of unit 100, and thus are notreadily reached by human hands when cleaning the unit. Were itotherwise, the sharp point on electrode(s) 243 could easily cause cuts.The inclusion of one electrode 243 has been found sufficient to providea sufficient number of output negative ions, but more such electrodesmay be included.

The electrode configurations of FIGS. 4C and 4D will now be described.In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4C, each “U”-shaped electrode 242 hastwo trailing edges that promote efficient kinetic transport of theoutflow of ionized air and O₃. Note the inclusion on at least oneportion of a trailing edge of a pointed electrode region 243′. Electroderegion 243′ helps promote output of negative ions, in the same fashionas was described with respect to FIGS. 4A and 4B. Note, however, thehigher likelihood of a user cutting himself or herself when wipingelectrodes 242 with a cloth or the like to remove particulate matterdeposited thereon. In FIG. 4C and the figures to follow, the particulatematter is omitted for ease of illustration. However, from what was shownin FIGS. 2A-4B, particulate matter will be present in the incoming air,and will be substantially absent from the outgoing air. As has beendescribed, particulate matter 60 typically will be electrostaticallyprecipitated upon the surface area of electrodes 242.

Note that the embodiments of FIGS. 4C and 4D depict somewhat truncatedversions of electrodes 242. Whereas dimension L in the embodiment ofFIGS. 4A and 4B was about 10 mm, in FIGS. 4C and 4D, L has beenshortened to about 5 mm. Other dimensions in FIG. 4C preferably aresimilar to those stated for FIGS. 4A and 4B. In FIGS. 4C and 4D, theinclusion of point-like regions 246 on the trailing edge of electrodes242 seems to promote more efficient generation of ionized air flow. Itwill be appreciated that the configuration of second electrode array 240in FIG. 4C can be more robust than the configuration of FIGS. 4A and 4B,by virtue of the shorter trailing edge geometry. As noted earlier, asymmetrical staggered geometry for the first and second electrode arraysis preferred for the configuration of FIG. 4C.

In the embodiment of FIG. 4D, the outermost second electrodes, denoted242-1 and 242-2, have substantially no outermost trailing edges.Dimension L in FIG. 4D is preferably about 3 mm, and other dimensionsmay be as stated for the configuration of FIGS. 4A and 4B. Again, theR2/R1 ratio for the embodiment of FIG. 4D preferably exceeds about 20:1.

FIGS. 4E and 4F depict another embodiment of electrode assembly 220, inwhich the first electrode array comprises a single wire electrode 232,and the second electrode array comprises a single pair of curved“L”-shaped electrodes 242, in cross-section. Typical dimensions, wheredifferent than what has been stated for earlier-described embodiments,are X1 ^(˜) 12 mm, Y1 ^(˜) 6 mm, Y2 ^(˜) 5 mm, and L1 ^(˜) 3 mm. Theeffective R2/R1 ratio is again greater than about 20:1. The fewerelectrodes comprising assembly 220 in FIGS. 4E and 4F promote economy ofconstruction, and ease of cleaning, although more than one electrode232, and more than two electrodes 242 could of course be employed. Thisembodiment again incorporates the staggered symmetry described earlier,in which electrode 232 is equidistant from two electrodes 242.

FIGS. 4G and 4H shown yet another embodiment for electrode assembly 220.In this embodiment, first electrode array 230 is a length of wire 232,while the second electrode array 240 comprises a pair of rod or columnarelectrodes 242. As in embodiments described earlier herein, it ispreferred that electrode 232 be symmetrically equidistant fromelectrodes 242. Wire electrode 232 is preferably perhaps 0.08 mmtungsten, whereas columnar electrodes 242 are perhaps 2 mm diameterstainless steel. Thus, in this embodiment the R2/R1 ratio is about 25:1.Other dimensions may be similar to other configurations, e.g., FIG. 4E,4F. Of course electrode assembly 220 may comprise more than oneelectrode 232, and more than two electrodes 242.

An especially preferred embodiment is shown in FIGS. 4I-4K, and to alesser extent FIG. 4L as well. Referring now to FIG. 4I, the upstream orfirst electrode array 230 comprises first and second pin-like or pointedelectrodes 232, downstream substantially co-axial from which aredisposed first and second annular-like electrodes 242 in the secondelectrode array 240. Note that the first array electrodes 232 may bepointed, or pin-like, or cone-like and that more than one first arrayelectrode 232, 232′ may be provided for a single second array electrode242. Preferably each second array electrode 242 has a smoothly roundedinner opening 246. The surface of electrode 242 that faces electrode 232will transition smoothly and continuously into this opening to form acollar region 247, best seen in FIGS. 4J-4N. The material comprisingsecond array electrode 242 surrounds this opening, which preferably iscoaxial with and downstream from the pointed end or tapered end ofelectrode 232.

Note that particulate matter 60 will be electro-kinetically transportedtowards and will tend to electrostatically adhere to the surface ofelectrodes 242 facing upstream, e.g., towards pointed electrodes 232.Preferably electrodes 232 are tungsten, and electrodes 242 are stainlesssteel. In the various electrode embodiments described herein, theupstream electrodes 232 preferably will be tungsten as this material cansustain high temperature associated with ionization. By contrast, thedownstream electrodes 242 typically are machined or fabricated and willbe made from a material more workable than tungsten, yet durable,stainless steel being a preferred such material.

FIG. 4I also depicts member 112 disposed adjacent a downstream region ofthe electrode array, preferably downstream from second electrodes 242.By forming member 112 with an annular opening 113. Member 112 has alength Lt of about 1″ (2.5 cm) and the annular opening has a diameter ofperhaps 0.5″ (1.2 cm). In the preferred embodiment, the diameter of theannular opening in member 112 is greater than the diameter D′ (about0.375″ or 9.5 mm) of the opening 249 formed in electrodes 242. If Porex™material or similar moisture-containing material is used and issaturated with water, humidity of the airstream exiting the presentinvention may be increased by about 10% to about 20% compared to ambientair. In an aircraft cabin environment where ambient air is especiallydry (as well as being stale and perhaps germ laden), the ability of auser to generate and breath clean air with ozone and increased humiditycan make air travel or car travel more enjoyable. As noted, member 112may also or instead be moistened with medication, e.g., for an asthmaticuser, or may include a scent improving chemical to enhance the aroma ofthe output air.

Referring briefly to FIG. 2D, member 41 is a cylinder of preferablyPorex™ material 112 inserted from the rear (with electrode 242temporarily removed) within plastic cylinder 131 of housing portion 125.Housing member 125 is user-removable from the rest of the housing,whereupon material 112 may be wet with water, medication, scentmaterial, etc. after which housing member 125 is joined to the remainderof the housing.

Typical dimensions for the embodiment of FIGS. 4I-4N are L1 ^(˜) 10 mm,X1 ^(˜) 9.5 mm, T^(˜) 0.5 mm, and the diameter of opening 246 is about12 mm. Dimension L1 preferably is sufficiently long that upstreamportions of electrode 232 (e.g., portions to the left in FIG. 4I) do notinterfere with the electrical field between electrode 232 and thecollector electrode 242. However, as shown in FIG. 4J, the effectiveR2/R1 ratio is governed by the tip geometry of electrode 232. Again, inthe preferred embodiment, this ratio exceeds about 15:1 and morepreferably exceeds about 20:1. Lines drawn in phantom in FIGS. 4J-4Ndepict theoretical electric force field lines, emanating from emitterelectrode 232, and terminating on the curved surface of collectorelectrode 246. Preferably the bulk of the field emanates within about±45□ of coaxial axis between electrode 232 and electrode 242. On theother hand, if the opening in electrode 242 and/or electrode 232 and 242geometry is such that too narrow an angle about the coaxial axis exists,air flow will be unduly restricted.

One advantage of the ring-pin electrode assembly configuration shown inFIG. 4I is that the upstream-facing flat surface regions of annular-likeelectrode 242 provide sufficient surface area to which particulatematter 60 entrained in the moving air stream can attach, yet be readilycleaned. Further, the ring-pin type configuration shown in FIGS. 4I-4Nadvantageously can generate more ozone than prior art configurations, orthe configurations of FIGS. 4A-4H. For example, whereas theconfigurations of FIGS. 4A-4H may generate perhaps 50 ppb ozone, theconfiguration of FIG. 4I can generate about 2,000 ppb ozone.

In FIG. 4J, a detailed cross-sectional view of the central portion ofelectrode 242 in FIG. 4I is shown. As best seen in FIG. 4J, curvedregion 246 adjacent the central opening 249 in electrode 242 forms asmooth transition between the planar regions of electrode 242 (whereonparticulate matter tends to collect), and the collar region 247 throughwhich the clean and ionized air flow passes in going through electrode242. In FIG. 4K, collar region 247 is elongated relative to theembodiment of FIG. 4J, and the collar region in cross-section may besaid to define a cylinder. Compare, for example, collar region 247 inFIG. 4L, which region in cross-section defines a converging cone, e.g.,opposite surfaces of the region are not parallel but rather tend toconverge, in a narrowed exit opening.

In the various embodiments shown in FIG. 4I-4N, the relatively smoothand continuous transition between the planar surface of electrode 242and the interior of the collar region aids the flow of air therethrough.Further, the continuous surface so defined provides an acceptably largesurface area to which many ionization paths from the distal tip ofelectrode 232 have substantially equal path length. Thus, while thedistal tip (or emitting tip) of electrode 232 is pointed or sharp and isadvantageously small to concentrate the electric field between theelectrode arrays, the adjacent regions of electrode 242 preferablyprovide many equidistant inter-electrode array paths. A high exitflowrate of perhaps 90 feet/minute and 2,000 ppb range ozone emissionattainable with the configurations of FIG. 4I-4M confirm a highoperating efficiency.

FIG. 4M is a cross-section of a portion of the cylindrical portion 131of front housing member 125 showing the relationship between thepreferably plastic housing portion 131, the moisture-retaining cylinderof material 112 within this housing portion, and a lipped annularelectrode 160 that is adhesively attached to the rearmost (e.g., facingpin-like electrode 232) section of housing portion 131. The user needonly remove housing portion 125 from the remainder of the housing, runwater or other liquid through port opening 106 to thoroughly wetmaterial 112, and then re-insert housing portion 125 into the remainderof housing 102. Housing portion 125 is retained within housing 102 by aspring-loaded mechanism that the user can release with a slidingmechanism on the lower surface of housing 102 (not shown in FIG. 2D forclarity) when necessary. Once well wet with water (or other liquid),member 112 will act to increase humidity of clear air output by thepresent invention for an hour or two before it is necessary tore-moisten member 112.

In FIG. 4N, one or more pointed electrodes 232 is replaced by aconductive block 232″ of carbon fibers, the block having a distalsurface in which projecting fibers 233-1, . . . 233-N take on theappearance of a “bed of nails”. The projecting fibers can each act as anemitting electrode and provide a plurality of emitting surfaces. Over aperiod of time, some or all of the electrodes will literally beconsumed, whereupon graphite block 232″ will be replaced. Materialsother than graphite may be used for block 232″ providing the materialhas a surface with projecting conductive fibers such as 233-N.

It will be appreciated that applicants' first array pin-like or pointedelectrodes may be utilized with the second array electrodes of FIGS.4A-4H if desired. Further, applicants' second array annular ring-likeelectrodes may be utilized with the first array electrodes of FIGS.4A-4H. For example, in modifications of the embodiments of FIGS. 4A-4H,each wire or columnar electrode 232 is replaced by a column ofelectrically series-connected pin electrodes (e.g., as shown in FIGS.4I-4K), while retaining the second electrode arrays as depicted in thesefigures. By the same token, in other modifications of the-embodiments ofFIGS. 4A-4H, the first array electrodes can remain as depicted, but eachof the second array electrodes 242 is replaced by a column ofelectrically series-connected ring electrodes (e.g., as shown in FIGS.4I-4K).

As described, the net output of ions is influenced by placing a biaselement (e.g., element 243) near the output stream and preferably nearthe downstream side of the second array electrodes. If no ion outputwere desired, such an element could achieve substantial neutralization.It will also be appreciated that the present invention could be adjustedto produce ions without producing ozone, if desired. In practice,increasing humidity of the output air by using a moistened member 112will tend to decrease ozone content somewhat.

In summary, when operated from internal batteries, the present inventioncan provide several hours of clean air with safe amounts of ozone and,if desired, an increase in humidity of perhaps 10% to 20%. If desired,the air outflow may be augmented with other than water, for example aninhalant or other substance. If desired, the invention may be poweredfrom an external source such as a motor vehicle 12 V battery. While thepreferred embodiment includes two pair of electrodes, it will beappreciated that the present invention may be implemented with more orfewer electrodes.

Modifications and variations may be made to the disclosed embodimentswithout departing from the subject and spirit of the invention asdefined by the following claims.

1. A personal air transporter-conditioner device, comprising: a portablehousing including a vent; an ion generator disposed in said housing,said ion generator to produce a flow Of ionized air that exits said ventin said housing; and a transducer disposed in said housing, thetransducer being operable to detect vibration; wherein said iongenerator turns-on in response to vibration detected by the transducer.2. The device of claim 1, wherein a switch turns on the ion generator inresponse to vibration detected by the transducer.
 3. The device of claim1, wherein said ion generator comprises: a first electrode and a secondelectrode; and a high voltage generator that provides a voltagedifference between said first electrode and said second electrode. 4.The device of claim 1, further comprising: a moisture retaining materialto increase humidity of the ionized air that exits said vent in saidhousing.
 5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a cord attached tosaid housing and forming a loop that enables said housing to besuspended from a neck of a user.
 6. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising a means for mounting said housing within an automobile. 7.The device of claim 1, wherein said ion generator configured to receiveoperating power from an auxiliary power outlet of an automobile.
 8. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein after being turned-on for a predeterminedamount of time, said ion generator turns-off.
 9. A personal airtransporter-conditioner device, comprising: a portable housing includinga vent; an ion generator disposed in said housing, said ion generator toproduce a flow of ionized air that exits said vent in said housing; anda transducer disposed in said housing, the transducer being operable todetect noise; wherein said ion generator turns-on in response to noisedetected by the transducer.
 10. The device of claim 9, wherein a switchturns on the ion generator in response to vibration detected by thetransducer.
 11. The device of claim 9, wherein said ion generatorcomprises: a first electrode and a second electrode; and a high voltagegenerator that provides a voltage difference between said firstelectrode and said second electrode.
 12. The device of claim 9, furthercomprising: a moisture retaining material to increase humidity of theionized air that exits said vent in said housing.
 13. The device ofclaim 9, further comprising a cord attached to said housing and forminga loop that enables said housing to be suspended from a neck of a user.14. The device of claim 9, further comprising a means for mounting saidhousing within an automobile.
 15. The device of claim 9, wherein saidion generator is configured to receive operating power from an auxiliarypower outlet of an automobile.
 16. The device of claim 9, wherein afterbeing turned-on for a predetermined amount of time, said ion generatorturns-off.